Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Criminal Justice and Homeland Security (D.P.S.)

Department

Division of Criminal Justice and Homeland Security

First Advisor

Bernard A. Jones

Second Advisor

Keith Cozine,

Third Advisor

Jie Xu

Abstract

On-campus active shooter incidents challenge U.S.-based Institutions of Higher Learning (IHLs) as they are usually only identifiable after the first shot. My mixed-methods, exploratory study was conducted to fill gaps in the limited research regarding on-campus active shooter incidents. Using purposive sampling, I identified two IHL security directors for the initial qualitative phase of my research. I conducted separate virtual interviews to discuss active shooter-specific responses, policies, procedures, security measures, potential active shooter-specific security systems, and their views on the importance of open-campus learning and social environments. We also discussed their active shooter response postures and whether they believed their campus populations would feel safe in the event of an active shooter incident. The second phase of this study included an online survey of sophomore and junior undergraduate students, faculty, and non-faculty employees at the same two IHLs where the security directors were interviewed. The surveys examined participants' perceptions and feelings of safety and security regarding on-campus active shooter incidents, active shooter training, policies and procedures, and Threat Assessment Teams. I also researched survey participants' openness to other active-shooter-specific security technologies and the importance of open-campus learning and social environments. Qualitative findings showed that the IHL security directors felt well prepared for an on-campus active shooter incident and stressed the need for active shooter training. However, the IHL security directors held different positions regarding their active shooter response posture, but had similar authorizations to implement new security tools. Quantitative findings identified, in part, a statistically significant correlation between respondents' reported importance of open campus environments and their Openness to Technology. There was also a statistically significant correlation between participants' consideration of transferring if security measures impinged on their open campus. IHL 1's population felt significantly less safe about a possible on-campus active shooter incident than IHL 2. Both IHLs were similar in their assessments of the essentiality of active shooter training and in their uncertainty about the use and perceived effectiveness of TATs. These findings can help IHL administrators and security directors make informed decisions on various aspects of on-campus active-shooter incidents and account for their populations' feelings and perceptions.

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